Looking to expand beyond their home market, thirteen Romanian startups made significant strides at the Go Global accelerator in Milan from February 24–27, 2025.
Over the course of four action-packed days, these innovative companies participated in more than 400 meetings with a wide range of investors, consultants, and industry pros in venture capital, IT&C, and international business consulting.
This final stage of the Go Global program gave each startup direct access to feedback and connections vital for taking their ventures worldwide.
With a “speed-dating” style mentorship setup, founders had quick but meaningful exchanges with seasoned experts—plenty of energy, rapid-fire conversations, and genuine insights all around.
- The chosen teams, collectively generating around €10 million in annual revenue, represent sectors like IT, healthcare, environmental solutions, and finance.
Go Global is a cutting-edge tech business accelerator led by UPGRADE 100 and How to Web, coordinated by Arieli Innovate, supported by Raiffeisen Bank Romania and AmCham Romania.
Think of it as a launchpad designed to propel promising startups onto the global stage.
On the last day, participants had a chance to shine in an exclusive showcase. Each team presented its vision, international goals, and business potential to a roomful of keen investors.
Every pitch was fine-tuned based on feedback gathered earlier in the program—giving founders a serious edge as they plan their global expansion.
- Curious which 13 startups are paving the road to the future? Check out our full report for the complete rundown.
A Grand Finale Full of Insights and Opportunities
The Go Global experience wrapped up with an investor showcase that drew major players from Milan’s vibrant startup and investment ecosystem.
Members of the Upgrade 100 team were also there, including co-founder Dragos Stanca and executive director Smaranda Heroiu, as well as account manager Andreea Iancu, representing the How to Web community.
Bogdan Popa (foto), VP of IT & Operations at Raiffeisen Bank Romania, shared his perspective:
“I was impressed by the diversity of the startups in the final round, their energy, and their drive to make a global impact.
This program was an extraordinary journey, filled with learning sessions, networking, and valuable exchanges of ideas. As a program partner, we encourage all finalists to leverage the experience and connections gained here to take Go Global to the next level.”
Besides countless exploratory meetings, founders learned the nuances of approaching potential investors with precision and confidence.
According to Smaranda Heroiu, Executive Director of Upgrade 100:
“One of the most valuable aspects of Go Global was the chance for startups to engage with top-tier professionals whose feedback helped clarify their objectives almost instantly. We had the opportunity to discuss with industry leaders who provided critical insights on improving sales strategies and securing investment opportunities. Additionally, every participant expanded their network significantly, gaining access to high-level venture capital investors they wouldn’t have reached otherwise.”
On behalf of How to Web, Andreea Iancu added:
“The startups that represented us in Milan embody the spirit of Romanian founders—ambitious, talented, and ready to take their products to global markets. Through Go Global, they saved valuable time in their growth journey by accessing a powerful network that opened doors to extraordinary opportunities.”‘
It wasn’t just the startups benefiting—investors and business experts also took away fresh insights, making the event a genuine win-win for everyone involved.
The Selection Process
The Go Global finalists emerged from a rigorous, months-long selection journey involving interviews, networking events, and business meetups.
Their culminating week in Milan (February 24–27) included high-intensity meetings and concluded with a major showcase and final presentations on Thursday, February 27.
But don’t think it’s over. Go Global is just getting started, with more application rounds on the horizon. Keep an eye on our site for updates on upcoming accelerator opportunities!
Photos: Mihai Ivan and Andreea Radion